Reaching out to a therapist for the first time or after being out of therapy for a while can be quite intimidating. Combined with what is typically a high level of distress, you have questions about what is occurring for you and might be concerned about connecting and relating well with your therapist. My role is to provide an encouraging and nonjudgmental environment for you to explore your difficulties and to work collaboratively with you in putting a treatment plan into action.

My primary psychotherapy approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), although I have some training in Interpersonal Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as well. The type of approach I use depends largely on what the research tells us is effective with a particular difficulty but also considers the needs and wants of the client.

My BackgroundI completed my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in 2009, and I have been in private practice since that time. My clinical work has involved helping adults with difficulties related anxiety, depression, and anger. As well, I have provided services to individuals dealing with psychosis and concurrent disorders (addictions and mental health).

In addition to working in private practice, I am a professor at UBC where I have taught courses in clinical and forensic psychology. I completed a M.A. in Forensic Psychology in 2002, and I continue to be involved in this field. For example, at the moment, I am involved with providing treatment services to men convicted within the provincial system for sexual offending.I am a registered psychologist in the province of British Columbia.